Rafael Verdera 1841:sail with history, tapas & wine in Palma

Imagine stepping aboard a vessel that’s been sailing the waters of Palma since 1841 — the Rafael Verdera, the oldest working boat in the Spanish fleet. For around $78 per person, you’re invited to spend a day (or an evening) soaking up beautiful views, engaging water activities, and delicious local food. This experience offers a blend of maritime history, active water fun, and relaxed indulgence, making it a well-rounded day at sea.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines the charm of a historic ship with modern-day pleasures like snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Plus, the opportunity to enjoy a BBQ of fresh, locally sourced ingredients or a romantic sunset with canapés and cava adds a level of authenticity and comfort that’s hard to beat.

One thing to consider is that the route can change depending on weather conditions, so plans might shift slightly. Still, this isn’t a dealbreaker but worth noting if you’re hoping for a very specific scenery or schedule.

This experience is ideal for travelers who appreciate a balance of history, activity, and leisurely indulgence—whether you’re a water lover, history buff, or simply someone looking for a memorable, authentic day in Palma.

Key Points

• Historic Vessel: The Rafael Verdera boat has been sailing since 1841, adding a sense of timelessness to your experience.
• Water Activities: Snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding are included, perfect for those wanting an active water day.
• Authentic Food & Drink: Enjoy local tapas, a BBQ, and sunset cava, emphasizing Palma’s regional flavors.
• Stunning Views: The route offers excellent vistas of Palma’s iconic landmarks, including the cathedral, Bellver Castle, and the Almudaina Palace.
• Flexible Options: Choose a lively daytime trip with water sports or a romantic sunset voyage with canapés.
• Family-friendly & Relaxed: The tour is suitable for those who enjoy a laid-back, yet engaging, water adventure with a touch of history.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Experience on the Water: A Deep Dive

Aboard the Rafael Verdera, you’re not just cruising — you’re stepping into a floating storybook. This vessel, with its long history dating back to the 19th century, offers a sense of connection to Palma’s maritime past. Its well-maintained condition surprises many, given its age, and it’s clear the crew takes pride in its preservation. One traveler mentioned, “The ship is very beautiful and well cared for, considering how old it is,” which is a testament to the respect this vessel commands.

Starting from Palma’s pier, the journey initially focuses on relaxing and taking in the sights of Palma’s seafront. The route is designed to showcase landmarks like the majestic Palma Cathedral, the defensive Bellver Castle, and the historic Almudaina Palace— all visible from the water. It’s a fantastic way to see the city’s architecture and coastline from a different perspective, especially with a glass of local wine or cava in hand.

Water Sports & Activities

What sets this tour apart are the water-based activities. Two kayaks and paddle surfboards are shared among participants, inviting you to paddle along the coastline or snorkel in the clear waters. We loved how accessible these are — no previous experience needed, just a willingness to splash around. The highlight might be jumping into the sea from the bow’s swings — a fun and adventurous touch that many reviews highlight as a memorable part of the trip. One reviewer enthused, “Dare to jump into the cool sea from the bow — it’s a highlight for both kids and adults.”

Snorkeling is also available, allowing you to explore the underwater world of Palma’s waters, which many describe as refreshingly clear. If you prefer to stay dry, simply relax on deck and enjoy the views, or hoist the sails if you’re feeling adventurous.

Food & Drink: Local Flavors at Sea

Whether on a daytime adventure or a sunset trip, food is a big part of the experience. During the day, a delicious BBQ of fresh, locally sourced ingredients is served, along with snacks and a dessert. The quality of the food impresses many; one guest commented, “The regional, healthy, and delicious snacks were served late but worth the wait.” Beverages, including a choice of drinks, are also included, making this a true feast.

For the romantic sunset option, the focus shifts to canapés, drinks, and a breathtaking sunset. The champagne-like cava, paired with light bites, makes for a perfect end to the day. Passengers have described the sunset views as “simply wonderful,” and the calm, peaceful atmosphere aboard the vintage vessel makes it all the more special.

The Crew & Atmosphere

Multiple reviews praise the crew for their friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive service. With guides speaking Spanish, English, and French, they accommodate a diverse group of travelers. Passengers mention how welcoming and relaxed the crew makes everyone feel, contributing greatly to the overall enjoyment. One reviewer noted, “The crew was very friendly and knowledgeable, making us feel at home.”

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Flexibility & Practicalities

Booking offers the advantage of pay later and free cancellation up to 24 hours before, which is handy if your plans change. The meeting point is straightforward — look for the large wooden boat “Rafael Velero” at the pier — and the activity ends back where it started, so no hassle with transportation.

Passengers should bring flip-flops (no high heels or party gear), and note that food and drinks outside the tour offerings are not permitted on board. This tour isn’t suited for large party groups or those wanting a party atmosphere, but rather for relaxed, genuine enjoyment of Palma’s scenic waters.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you’re looking for a cultural and historical boat ride combined with active water fun. It suits travelers who appreciate authenticity, enjoy trying water sports, or want to see Palma from the water in a way that feels intimate and genuine. Families, couples, or solo travelers who want to combine sightseeing with fun will find plenty to love here.

If you’re a foodie who enjoys regional flavors and a good glass of wine, the meal and drink options will delight. For those seeking a peaceful, scenic sunset, the adult-only romantic option delivers a quiet, captivating experience.

The Sum Up

The Rafael Verdera tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, activity, and gastronomy, delivered on a beautifully maintained vintage vessel. It’s a chance to see Palma’s landmarks from the water, enjoy engaging water sports, and relax with regional cuisine and wine. The positive reviews speak to a friendly crew and a memorable experience that many travelers cherish.

For those who want an authentic taste of Palma’s maritime heritage while enjoying the sea’s refreshing embrace, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially ideal for travelers who love a blend of scenery, water fun, and good food in a relaxed atmosphere.

If you’re looking for a fun, cultural, and scenic day on Palma Bay without the crowds, this experience deserves a spot on your Mallorca itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is family-friendly, the sunset romantic option is adult-only. The daytime trip with water sports is suitable for kids, but always check with the provider for age restrictions.

What should I bring?
Bring flip-flops for comfortable boarding and disembarking. Avoid high heels, party gear, or outside food and drinks as these are not permitted onboard.

How long does the trip last?
The exact duration isn’t specified here, but it’s a full-day experience with options for sunset trips, typically around several hours.

Can I hop into the water?
Yes, snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and jumping into the sea from the bow swings are all part of the experience.

What is included in the price?
For the daytime trip, snacks, a barbecue, dessert, and 1 drink are included. The sunset option includes canapés and drinks, often with cava. Water and shared equipment are also provided.

Is the boat accessible for people with mobility issues?
The information doesn’t specify accessibility features, so it’s best to ask directly if this is a concern.

What languages are spoken?
Guides speak Spanish, English, and French.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The route may vary depending on weather conditions, and the tour offers flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the pier where the “Rafael Velero” boat is docked and ends back at the same point.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay nothing until closer to the date, providing flexibility in planning.

This review aims to give you an honest, detailed look at what makes the Rafael Verdera tour a memorable way to experience Palma. Whether you’re interested in history, water sports, or simply relaxing with regional flavors, this trip offers genuine value — with a little bit of everything to satisfy diverse tastes.

You can check availability for your dates here: